The rabid dog ("dogA," a six-month old Chihuahua) bit his "flight parent" and a vet tech. Both of the bite victims and dogA's caretakers required post exposure treatment, which consists of 4 vaccinations, one on the day of exposure if known, and 3 subsequent vaccinations on day 3, 7 and 14. Further, an investigation and lengthy confinement for two of the other imported dogs was required.

For people who take a "What's the big deal?" or "It's the thought that counts" attitude toward the issue of poorly regulated dog importation, the discussion section of this article lays out the huge cost in time, effort, and funding (hundreds of millions of dollars) that has gone into eliminating canine variant rabies in the United States. It also describes a dangerously lax international transport system, where a dog with little-to-no known medical history can enter the US. While rabies is the disease deemed most dramatic and newsworthy, other, more common parasites and illnesses such as the canine flu and canine brucellosis are both common and serious ongoing health threats.

Finally it should also be noted that Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes are the second most common type of dog found in U.S. Shelters. If one wishes to adopt a Chihuahua or Chihuahua type dog, it's not as if there aren't plenty of loving, healthy local dogs to choose from. Going this route, not only do you have the opportunity to bring a great dog into your home, your odds of requiring emergency vaccinations and being the center of a public health investigation will be SIGNIFICANTLY lowered.

Patti is a recognized expert and consultant on contemporary animal issues, most notably responsible dog ownership and the animal rights movement. She often appears on radio and television and her articles on canine issues, animal welfare, public policy and animal rights have appeared in major US news publications and in trade, professional and scientific journals. Patti and her…